Recent Updates on Diabetic Health Guidelines

By Jamie Lang

Mar 13, 2016

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As research studies are conducted and their findings are published, things can change rapidly in the world of medicine. For this reason, it is important to be proactive and stay abreast of the latest updates, particularly if you have a health condition, such as diabetes, that can affect your overall health in numerous ways.

1. New guidelines for BMI screening

In the past, medical professionals believed that when an individual has a body mass index of 25 or greater, it was important to screen the patient for diabetes. Now we know that in at least one racial population, patients with lower BMIs should be screened for diabetes.

Asians are at risk of developing the disease, even though they don't meet the past guidelines of being at risk. Research shows that Asians who have BMIs of 23 and above should be screened for diabetes. For other patients, the target number is 25.

Make sure to talk with your physician about this new guideline at your next annual physical.

2. Increasing your activity level

Activity is more important than ever. Americans hear more talk each day about how sitting behind a desk is detrimental to your health.

If your typical workday is spent behind a desk, it is important that you increase your activity during the day. According to the new guidelines published by the American Diabetes Association, this is particularly beneficial if you sit for over an hour and a half at one time.

Help keep your diabetes under control and your body healthy by getting up and taking a quick walk to the employees break room or a short walk outside, if you have a moment. If you cannot leave your desk, get up and stretch for a couple of minutes. Even standing up while you are talking on the phone will help increase your circulation and stretch weary muscles.

3. A beneficial beverage

There is much talk about what you should or shouldn't eat or drink on a diabetic meal plan, but a beverage that may actually decrease your blood sugar level may surprise you.

Many Americans feel that they cannot start the day without their favorite brand of java. Coffee seems to help jump start their day and now diabetics no longer have to feel guilty when consuming this beverage -- and even three or four cups.

Coffee can actually lessen your risk of getting Type 1 diabetes. This is because the chemicals in the coffee beans are similar to those that control your metabolism.

4. Meal planning

Many diabetic patients wonder why they can't seem to control their blood sugar, even though they strive to eat the right foods, get plenty of sleep, and exercise regularly. Sometimes the key to better blood sugar control is in the timing.

It is important for someone suffering with diabetes to realize that eating your meals on time is vital to maintaining control of your blood sugar levels. Stick to a schedule that allows your metabolism to work optimally by eating at the same time each day.

If you can't possibly stop for a meal due to a deadline or another type of bump in the road, plan ahead by having a healthy snack ready to consume, such as a meal replacement shake or bar. Eating this healthy and nutritious supplement helps supply your body with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy and alert all day.

Make sure to stay on top of changes in diabetic guidelines to make sure you're always one step ahead of the game. It's important to check in with your doctor at each visit to make sure you're on track with healthy living.